When using Westport’s hydrogen HPDI technology applied to a Scania 13-litre CBE1 engine platform, early test results show a peak brake thermal efficiency of nearly 52%.

In a joint demonstration between Westport and Scania, engine test results recorded a 51.5 % peak in brake thermal efficiency complemented by 48.7% at road load conditions, all with engine-out nitrogen oxides similar to the base diesel engine, which is compatible with Euro VII on-highway and EPA 2027 emissions standards.

“Hydrogen use in an internal combustion engine with our HPDI fuel system is an affordable pathway to employ a zero-carbon fuel using existing engine architecture and existing manufacturing infrastructure,” said Westport Fuel Systems CEO David Johnson in a press release. “This exciting evolution of our patented technology provides greater performance while achieving dramatically reduced emissions.”

Eric Olofsson, senior technical advisor at Scania, said the hydrogen HPDI concept requires limited redesign of the diesel cylinder head and no redesign of the external gas exchange system, exhaust aftertreatment system or crank case ventilation system, while providing high low-end torque – 28bar BMEP at 900rpm – and excellent transient performance.

“This enables a short time to market with an excellent product associated with low investments, and could be a complement to battery-electric vehicles, especially for long haulage and locations with limited electrical infrastructure,” Olofsson said.

The companies expect to complete the initial engine testing in the coming month.